Complete Guide to Reselling Sportswear Online

Is Reselling Sportswear Profitable?

Reselling sportswear can be a highly profitable venture, whether you're a casual seller or aiming to turn it into a full-time job. For casual resellers, you can expect to make anywhere from $200 to $500 a month with a few hours of effort each week. Serious resellers, who dedicate more time and leverage multiple sourcing opportunities, can see monthly profits in the $1,000 to $3,000 range. The key to achieving these numbers is understanding your market, sourcing strategically, and choosing the right platforms for selling.

Where to Source Sportswear for Resale

The backbone of any successful reselling business is sourcing. Here are some of the best places to find sportswear to resell:

• TK Maxx/Marshalls Clearance: These stores often have Nike Dri-FIT, Adidas, Under Armour, and Lululemon items at 50-70% off retail. Focus on popular sizes like S-L for women and M-XL for men.
• End-of-Season Sales: Sports stores clear out old inventory in January/February and July/August. Look for football kits, running gear, and team apparel at discounted prices.
• Charity Shops: Especially those in affluent neighborhoods. Lululemon leggings, which retail for $98, can often be found for £3-5. Brand recognition alone drives high demand for these items.
• Wholesale Overstock: Check liquidation websites like B-Stock, BULQ, and DirectLiquidation for pallets of mixed sportswear, with costs as low as $3-5 per piece.

When sourcing, always check for common wear issues like pilling, elastic waistband stretch, and deodorant stains. For brands like Lululemon, verify sizes using the size dot found in pockets, not the tags.

Choosing the Right Selling Platform

The platform you choose for selling sportswear can significantly impact your success. Here’s a breakdown of where to sell different types of sportswear:

• eBay: Best for rare finds over $100 and vintage sports jerseys. With over 135 million active buyers, eBay’s massive audience increases your chances of selling unique items quickly, despite its 13% fee.
• Vinted: Ideal for everyday items under $30. Vinted has a more casual audience looking for deals, making it perfect for selling generic sportswear.
• Grailed: Known for high-end and designer pieces. Great for reselling Lululemon and Patagonia due to its audience's focus on premium brands.
• Poshmark: Good for women's sportswear, particularly popular brands like Nike and Adidas, due to its strong female user base.

Pricing Strategy for Sportswear

Pricing is crucial in the resale market. Here are some real examples of how to price different sportswear:

• Generic Sportswear: Items can be priced between $8-15. This gives you room to make a profit while remaining competitive, especially if sourced at a low cost from clearance sales.
• Brand Name (Nike, Adidas): Price between $15-40, depending on the condition and rarity of the piece. A new with tags Nike Dri-FIT might go for $35, whereas a used piece might sell for $20.
• Premium Brands (Lululemon, Patagonia): These can range from $30-80. Lululemon leggings, even used, can fetch prices upwards of $50 if they're in excellent condition.
• Vintage Sports Jerseys: Depending on rarity and condition, price these from $30 to $150+. Rare or retro jerseys can command $80-400+.

Photography and Listing Optimization

Good photos and listings can make or break a sale. Here's how to optimize for sportswear:

• Photography: Use lay flat or a dress form rather than hangers to avoid stretching. Clearly show brand tags and logos, as buyers often search by brand. Highlight tech features like mesh panels and reflective elements.
• Measurements: Include a flat lay measurement photo, showing a tape measure across the chest and from top to bottom. Buyers often size by measurements, not labels.
• Keywords: Use terms like “breathable,” “moisture-wicking,” and “athletic fit” in your listings. Include brand names and specific features buyers might search for.
• ListingGenie: Consider using ListingGenie to generate optimized listings that rank higher in search results.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I do if I receive a return request? Evaluate the reason. If the item doesn’t match the description or is damaged, accept the return and refund. For size complaints, decide based on your return policy.
• How do I determine the authenticity of branded sportswear? Compare with retail images, check stitching quality, and verify tag details. For Lululemon, use the size dot for confirmation.
• What if my sportswear items aren’t selling? Re-evaluate your pricing, ensure your photos are clear, and adjust your keywords for better visibility.
• Should I offer international shipping? Yes, especially on platforms like eBay, to tap into a global market. Consider shipping costs and adjust your prices accordingly.
• Is it worth investing in premium sportswear items? Absolutely, especially for brands like Lululemon and Patagonia, which have strong resale values.